GREENVILLE, N.C. (WNCT) – Sniffling, sneezing, and congestion are back in season across the East. Many allergy sufferers know the drill by now. Ragweed, one of the main offenders this time of year, has actually dropped off due to all of the rain. But the wet weather may lead to a rise in another allergen: mold.
Paul Mehlhop, an allergist at The Allergy Center in Greenville explains:
”A lot of them have been growing on agricultural products and when harvesting equipment brings them in, the mold spores are scattered into the air.”
Molds thrive in wet, humid conditions. They’re a natural part of a healthy ecosystem but also tend to be one of the biggest allergens in the fall. Despite lower pollen counts lately, ragweed will likely make a resurgence once dry weather returns, and it tends to last until the first hard freeze, meaning we’ll have to wait as long as November for a permanent reprieve.
And if you’re one of the millions who suffers from allergy symptoms, doctors have some suggestions on how to get relief.
”There are times of the day when pollen levels are higher, which are times of the day when it’s generally drier, sunnier, and windier, which tends to be in the middle of the day,” said Mehlhop.
When you are outside, wear a mask to avoid breathing in pollens and mold.
Inside your home, keep the windows closed, make sure your heating and cooling unit has a good air filter, and keep your home dry to avoid mold growth.
